A controllable patient monitor for classroom video projectors.

INTRODUCTION Moderate capability simulators such as Laerdal's SimMan allow for the operator to control the vital signs presented on the monitor. However, the presence of the mannequin simulator may not always be needed to achieve specific teaching goals. In this report, we describe the use of the SimMan software to generate, control, and project vital signs on a projector screen, with an appearance identical to that of its normal companion monitor. METHODS We connected a laptop computer running Laerdal's SimMan software to a video projection system through a VGA or S-video connection and were able to create a controllable monitor that could be used for tabletop simulation sessions. RESULTS We were able to create an interactive and dynamic patient monitor that could be projected to a large group to facilitate tabletop simulation utilizing the Laerdal SimMan software and an external projection screen setup. CONCLUSIONS Laerdal SimMan software can be used to create a dynamic and interactive presentation tool for classroom learning.